Xbox and Netflix Talks Reportedly Stalled Over $800 Million Adaptation Deal
Xbox reportedly sought $800 million from Netflix for a seven-year deal granting exclusive movie and TV rights to its game franchises. Netflix initially offered $500 million, and the talks reportedly ended after recent leadership changes at the streamer. Xbox said it is pursuing smaller partnerships while continuing existing Minecraft and Diablo animated projects with Netflix.
Puck reported that Netflix opened at $500 million for a seven-year exclusive adaptation package, while Xbox countered at $800 million. The scope beyond exclusive game-based film and TV rights was not specified. Talks reportedly collapsed after Netflix’s recent executive shake-up, including the dismissal of content chief Bela Bajaria.
Netflix also cut about 1,000 jobs earlier in the month and fired film head Dan Lin, according to the report. Xbox is now seeking smaller agreements with additional partners, the report said. Existing collaborations continue: a Gears of War live-action film and animated show, a Minecraft animated series announced in 2024, and a Diablo animated project confirmed recently.
If Xbox shifts to smaller partnerships, fans of its franchises may see adaptations arrive through more varied outlets, while Netflix subscribers could face a less concentrated slate of game-based titles. The stalled exclusivity talks may encourage other studios and streamers to compete for game IP, potentially giving creators more buyers but also raising costs. Consumers could benefit from more choice, though fragmentation across services may make access less convenient.